Lawrence Alan DeMartini, an Obituary

Larry DeMartini

1948-2011

Lawrence Alan DeMartini, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, left this life 27 July 2011 at the age of 63 as a result of a heart attack following complications from surgery.  His last words were, “I want to go home.”  We know he has returned to his heavenly home.

Larry was born in Munich, Germany 15 July 1948 to Eugene and Doris Catoggio DeMartini.  Following his father’s death in 1952, the family settled first in Arizona and then in Southern California where Larry spent most of his youth.  He attended Camarillo High School where he met and courted his wife, Sue Hare.  They were high school sweethearts and have been together for 48 years.  Following high school, Larry played football for Moorpark Junior College where he was named Junior College All-American. 

After their marriage, Larry and Sue settled in Provo, Utah where they raised their five children.  Larry’s creative mind and skills were put to use in a variety of entrepreneurial endeavors and in his service as a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. His charismatic personality enabled him to develop life-long friendships with people from numerous walks of life. His sharp wit, acceptance of all, and generous nature were his most endearing qualities. He had a way of making every occasion memorable. He most loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren.

Larry often joked about his obituary and funny things he wanted included. In that spirit, his greatest accomplishment was, “I once killed a gopher with a stick!”  Dad brought a humor to life that few can match and his passing leaves a hole in our hearts.

Larry is survived by his wife Sue, and his five children, Katherine (Kent) Barrus, Eugene (Sharae) DeMartini, Christopher (Tysen) DeMartini, Bryan (Melissa) DeMartini, and Mikayla DeMartini, as well as ten grandchildren, Blake, Makenna, Luke, Brandt, Ava, Griffin, Crew, Blythe, Lyla, and Collin.  We will always love you, Grandpa.

Funeral services will be Saturday, 6 August, at 11:00am, with a viewing from 9:30-10:45am at the Grandview 13^th Ward Chapel, 1220 W 1150 N Provo.  We invite any and all to join us for a celebration of Big Lar’s life Friday evening from 6:00-8:00pm at Larry and Sue’s home, 1159 W 1140 N Provo.  We also want to thank all those who have cared for Dad the past five months.  Although he didn’t say so, we know he appreciated your service.  In lieu of flowers, please make a contribution to LDS Philanthropies or the National Kidney Foundation.